I would also add that some message board IP address check utilities are not as reliable as others. However, having said that, the one now here at Agoracom seems to be pretty good.

And it is not just a common IP address issue in the case here under discussion. It is also the timing and content of the posts, and the registration dates of the accounts in question.

As I pointed out, I've logged in using facebook from time to time and so I am sometimes shown with multiple accounts from the same IP (and I imagine I am not the only one who uses the facebook login option from time to time).

But I do not go about setting up fictitious conversations with myself in order to mislead others. That is what is at issue with this Chickyboom/Holdout/KBrassard/TraderJoey situation.

Agoracom should be VERY concerned about this, as I believe it was in the courts / Ontario Securites Commission not that long ago over a very similar issue.

http://agoracom.com/ir/CenturyMining/forums/discussion/topics/477001-who-needs-this/messages/1537096#message

http://www.osc.gov.on.ca/en/Proceedings_soa_20100401_agoracom.htm

http://blog.agoracom.com/2010/11/12/agoracom-settles-with-osc-on-contrary-to-the-public-interest/